During the 17th and 18th centuries, trade between East Asia and Europe was a flourishing enterprise that impacted not only economic development but also the cultural sphere. Chinese craftsmanship, particularly porcelain, lacquerware, and silk, was highly sought after in Europe, regarded as exotic and exclusive luxury goods. With its millennia-old history and vastly different culture, these objects represented a world of beauty, sophistication, and craftsmanship that stood in stark contrast to Western traditions. The motifs on these items—dragons, phoenixes, lotuses, and landscapes—are more than decorative elements; they carry symbolic meaning. The dragon represents strength and power but also intelligence and good fortune. The lotus stands for purity and enlightenment, while the blue-and-white palette for which Chinese porcelain is renowned symbolizes not only aesthetic harmony but also the connection between the earthly and the celestial. These items hold deeper meanings that can elevate appreciation to even greater heights for the curious or the seasoned collector.
We at Formstad are pleased to welcome you to a themed auction with a taste of the East, featuring porcelain, bronzes, lacquered wood, cloisonné, and pewter. Good luck!
